Pocket - a valued member of the Wellbeing Team.
Animals have the potential to lower human anxiety by simply being present. Animals are naturally wired to be in the present moment and communicate without the need for words.
Patting an animal can help to lower blood pressure, lower anxiety and lessen stress, helping to connect us to the present moment and provide relief from overwhelming thoughts.
When Pocket spends a day at school, he engages with staff and students alike.
A typical school day for Pocket involves:
- A happy greeting for the Administration staff
- Off to the Wellbeing Hub where he greets the many students who come in for lessons
- Then off to the Year 7 Centre to partake in classroom visits
- Back to the Wellbeing Hub for a rest and reset
- Off to the Library to say hello to a primary class
- If there's time, a quick visit to the Mathematics Department for a Pocket-sized treat!
The presence of a 'proxy pet’ at school brings a sense of joy to most people linking a common connection between home and school. Pocket loves engaging with people of all ages and loves being part of the Wellbeing Team at our school.
Some theory behind his role includes:
Reduced Stress:
- Interacting with a dog has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. Petting, playing, or simply being in the presence of a dog can help calm nerves and promote relaxation.
Improved Mood:
- Spending time with a dog often leads to an increase in the production of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good hormones. This can result in improved mood and overall wellbeing for both students and staff.
Increased Socialisation:
- Dogs can serve as a social catalyst, helping to break down barriers and facilitate interactions among students. Pocket provides a common, non-threatening focus for conversation and can help shy or anxious individuals feel more comfortable in social situations.
Enhanced Learning Environment:
- Research has shown that having a dog in a classroom can enhance positivity and support the learning environment. Students may feel more motivated and engaged when they can interact with a dog during lessons or breaks.
Building Connections:
- Having Pocket in our school setting has brought about a sense of connectedness among students and the staff. His presence adds another avenue for connection that doesn’t rely on words - which supports diverse communication skills.
Encouragement of Responsibility:
- Caring for a wellbeing dog can teach students lessons in responsibility, empathy, and compassion. Pocket’s small size encourages students to consider the needs of his physical safety in the way they interact with him in and out of the classroom.
Feel free to give Pocket a pat when you see him around the School!
Robyn Dixon